Toronto restaurant named second-best Italian establishment in the world

A Toronto eatery was named the second-best Italian restaurant worldwide, according to a new list.

Don Alfonso 1890, located in Toronto’s Harbourfront neighbourhood, was ranked No. 2 in the world category by 50 Top Italy 2023. There are two U.S.-based Italian restaurants featured in the top 10, with the No. 1 spot being awarded to Vittorio Shanghai in China.

Top 10 list:

  1. Vittorio Shanghai (China)
  2. Don Alfonso 1890 (Toronto)
  3. Gucci Osteria by Massimo Bottura (Japan)
  4. The Carpaccio (France)
  5. Fiola (Washington)
  6. Sesame (Morocco)
  7. Locanda Locatelli (UK)
  8. The lake (Switzerland)
  9. Rezdora (New York)
  10. Good Earth (Singapore)

The only other Canadian restaurant mentioned in the ranking is Vancouver’s Ciopinno, named No. 33.

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The publication writes of Toronto’s Don Alfonso 1890, saying, “The restaurant offers many Mediterranean-style dishes that have always distinguished the gastronomic philosophy of the Laccarino family.”

“For this reason, you will also find many local ingredients of excellence, starting with the meat and continuing with the vegetables. An extensive wine list and perfect Italian-style service made tailored for the customer.”

Toronto’s Don Alfonso 1890 was recognized in the first Canadian edition of the 2022 Michelin Guide with a one-star award. Sushi Masaki Saito was the only Canadian restaurant to receive a prestigious two-star award ranking.

Michelin named Toronto its first Canadian location in May 2022 and added Vancouver in July 2022. The Michelin Guide is considered one of the highest authorities on global fine dining.

Three-star Michelin restaurants are considered esteemed worldwide, as the addition or loss of a star can dramatically affect the success and reputation of an eatery.